Kea is the northernmost island in the Cyclades (besides Andros further to the east) and is the gateway to the Aegean Sea due to its proximity to Athens, Poros and Lavrion, the three main yacht charter bases in the area. Kea bareboat sailing vacations - and also the crewed yacht charters - should be arranged from these larger ports since there are no charter businesses on Kea itself.

Bareboat sailing or crewed charter vacations

Although the south Aegean Sea - in particular the southern Cyclades - is considered a rather advanced sailing area, the northern part which includes Kea, is considered more moderate. Still there is quite a difference from the easy cruising areas of the Argolic and Saronic gulfs, but the forecasts usually predict foul weather and a possible Meltemi well in advance. Bareboat sailing vacations are therefore very popular in this part of Greece.

If you lack the necessary skills to skipper your own boat in the Cyclades, there is the perfect option of crewed yacht charters, either with just a captain or instructor (skippered charter) or (fully crewed charter) with a cook, hostess, captain, etc.
Note, that also experienced sailors regularly take a crew on board in these waters. First of all the local crew will act as a guide. But perhaps more importantly the cook and hostesses will be able to provide a more relaxing holiday than on bareboat sailing vacations where you have to do the cooking and dish-washing yourself.

Routes for bareboat sailing vacations

When sailing from Athens towards the Northern Cyclades such as Kythnos or Kea you have the opportunity to see some highlights of the Saronic Gulf as well, notably, Aegina's east coast (Ay Marina Bay), Poros, Methana, Palaia Epidavros, Hydra and of course Cape Sounion with the famous temple overlooking the anchorage below.
Yet, on short 7-day bareboat sailing vacations it will be difficult to see a lot of the Cyclades as well. The obvious solution would be to sail at least for 10 days, preferably 14 (quite common) or 21 days. If this is impossible you should consider a one-way from Athens or Lavrion to Syros or Paros for your bareboat sailing vacations in the Cyclades.